Master of Cyber Security sees Katie strengthen Queensland's cyber resilience

For Katie Tiddy, enrolling in TAFE Queensland's Master of Cyber Security (HED009) was an opportunity to deepen her expertise, broaden her technical capability and stay ahead in one of the world's fastest-evolving industries.

Today, Katie is applying those advanced skills as a Principal Advisor, Information Security with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, helping the department understand, manage and reduce cyber security risks across a diverse range of business functions.

While now firmly established in the cyber security profession, Katie's career began in a very different field.

With a background in ISO 9001 implementation, project management and stakeholder engagement, her move into cyber security came unexpectedly after she was asked to lead the implementation of ISO 27001 for her employer.

"I quickly realised that not all ISO standards are created equal and that I needed to upskill," Katie said.

That experience sparked a passion for cyber security, leading her to complete a Certificate IV in Cyber Security (22603VIC) at TAFE Queensland in 2023 before progressing to the Master of Cyber Security.

"I wanted to expand my knowledge beyond my existing experience and gain a broader understanding of the field," she said.

"Cyber security is constantly evolving, and professionals need to continue learning to remain effective."

Working within the Queensland Government, Katie first learned about the master's program after an expression of interest was circulated for the pilot intake.

"The opportunity immediately appealed to me because it aligned perfectly with my career goals and passion for continuous learning," she said.

Throughout the program, the support provided by TAFE Queensland's teaching team proved to be one of the highlights.

"The teaching team has been incredibly supportive throughout the program," Katie said.

"They're approachable, relatable and genuinely invested in student success. Their industry experience brings the course content to life by showing how theoretical concepts apply in real-world environments."

Guest speakers and industry professionals also provided valuable insights into emerging cyber security challenges, while learning alongside students from a range of professional backgrounds created opportunities to share knowledge and experiences.

One of the aspects Katie valued most was the balance between technical cyber security subjects and governance, risk and compliance (GRC) content.

"As someone working in GRC, it can be difficult to find study options that recognise the importance of both the technical and strategic sides of cyber security," she said.

"The course acknowledges that cyber security is a broad discipline and allows students to explore different specialisations through elective subjects."

Balancing postgraduate study with a full-time career and family life required careful planning and discipline.

Working full-time while raising two school-aged children involved careful scheduling, dedicated study time and early preparation for assessments, but staying organised made the challenge manageable.

TAFE Queensland's flexible delivery and practical approach to learning helped support that balance, while ensuring the course remained closely aligned to industry needs.

"TAFE Queensland's approach to training is highly practical and industry-focused," Katie said.

"Learning from educators with significant industry experience helps ensure the content remains relevant and current."

Since beginning the course, Katie has strengthened her technical knowledge while developing a broader understanding of cyber security governance, security-by-design principles, cyber law, ethics and project methodologies.

The program has also built greater confidence in contributing to complex cyber security initiatives and engaging with stakeholders across both technical and business environments.

In her role as Principal Advisor, Information Security, that broader perspective is already making an impact.

Alongside providing strategic advice on cyber security risk management, Katie contributes to the development of security policies and governance frameworks, supports compliance with legislation and industry standards, and works with business areas to embed cyber security into decision-making and project delivery.

Just as importantly, she is passionate about building cyber security capability across the organisation by helping staff better understand cyber risks and their role in protecting information and systems.

"Cyber security is not just the responsibility of dedicated security teams," she said.

"It requires engagement from everyone, and one of the most rewarding parts of my role is helping people become more confident and proactive about cyber security."

Looking ahead, Katie hopes to establish her own cyber security consulting business supporting small and medium-sized businesses that often lack access to dedicated security expertise.

Her goal is to help organisations build practical, sustainable cyber security practices while empowering people through education and engagement.

For Katie, the Master of Cyber Security has provided the knowledge, confidence and industry-connected learning needed to continue building that future.

"I would highly recommend TAFE Queensland to anyone considering further study in cyber security," she said.

"The program combines flexible learning with practical, industry-relevant outcomes, and the networking opportunities with lecturers, guest speakers and fellow students are invaluable."